With the average life expectancy of an American being 77.5 years according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, few people can celebrate their 98th birthday. Hopkinsville resident Elizabeth Stone Adams is not only observing her birthday, but also visited Impressions Salon in downtown Cadiz for some pre-event pampering.

According to her driver Althea West, Adams worked at BB&T Bank, and has been married and widowed twice, with no children of her own. “I help her walk, but she does well on her own. It amazes me what she can do.”

Cosmetologist Gail Longworth said that Adams had been her client since 1994. Adams opted for a pedicure that Thursday.

Adams said that she planned a leisurely birthday for herself. “I just want to be at home. It’s just life as usual, I don’t celebrate.”

Though she expressed no preference for a type of birthday cake, Adams admitted to having a sweet tooth. “I like sweets of all kinds, but mostly pie.”

Though the younger generations have sought the secret for longevity throughout history, Adams said that she had no secret fountain of youth. “I have no idea- I never imagined living this long. I’ve had no serious illnesses, just lived a normal life.”